I am just beginning my search for a "Skoolie" to convert for a 1+ year, 100,000+ mile adventure. My questions are in regard to engines, transmissions, and gear ratio. I need some help determining what mix of the above will best suit me so that the trip is an adventure and not a disaster. I am in New Mexico, so any info from the southwest would be great. Any/all help is greatly appreciated. Thanks

I purchased a bus last winter. It's a 1991 Ford/ward with a braziallian made Ford 6.6 liter inline turbo diesel and the allison automatic trans. I've been very happy with this combination except for one thing. The Gear ratio is made for a school bus, and not for the open highway. The engine has plenty of power, but it runs out of RPM's by 60mph. I'm certian if the gear ratio was different i could cruise 70mph or so. I"m not sure what the gear ratio is....somewhere around a 5:1. I haul approximately 400 gallons of water with me almost everywhere i go. This is my partybus, and has a sizeable jacuzzi inside. www.geocities.com/blackplaguetour I hope this info is helpful.

I would recommend that you find an old Gillig or Crown with a 10 speed trans. Most school buses are geared for in town driving and top out at 55 or 60 with the engine rpm's maxed out. A 10 speed will cruse 75 or 80 without any problem.
Andy